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Sonic Hedgehog

·May 4, 2025·5 min read

Two Key Signals Shape Brain Structure Early, Varying by Person

A new study has revealed how two morphogens, WNT and Sonic Hedgehog, act as molecular "traffic cops," directing early human brain development. Using a custom device and stem cell-derived organoids, researchers showed that exposure to these signals for just five days sets gene programs in motion that shape brain regions.

Featured Genetics Neurology Neuroscience Open Neuroscience Articles

·September 24, 2021·3 min read

Sonic Hedgehog Protein Pathway Stimulation Could Help Parkinson’s Patients

Drugs that increase signaling of Sonic Hedgehog (Shh) can help suppress the involuntary movements associated with dopamine replacement therapy for those with Parkinson's disease.

Brain Cancer Featured Genetics Neurology Neuroscience

·April 1, 2020·4 min read

Inherited mutation can predispose children to a type of brain tumor

The ELP1 gene is abnormally mutated in the germline DNA of 15% of children with the Sonic Hedgehog subgroup of medulloblastoma brain cancer.

Featured Neuroscience Open Neuroscience Articles

·November 5, 2019·3 min read

CBD and THC use during early pregnancy can disrupt fetal development

Brain and fetal development damage caused by exposure to CBD and THC are very similar defects seen in fetal alcohol syndrome.

This shows a medulloblastoma in a brain scan

Brain Cancer Featured Genetics Neurology Neuroscience

·August 29, 2019·4 min read

Cracking the code of a brain cancer that keeps coming back

Using computer assisted technology to map cell types and molecular cascades, researchers have discovered potential new treatment strategies for recurrent Sonic Hedgehog Medulloblastoma.

This image shows astrocytes in the brain.

Featured Genetics Neuroscience

·February 18, 2016·4 min read

A Key Mechanism that Could Improve Brain Function

Astrocytes can be adjusted by neurons in response to injury and disease, a new study reports.

This shows stained slices from the research. The caption best describes the image.

Featured Neuroscience

·April 22, 2015·5 min read

How the Blood-Brain Barrier is Maintained

Researchers identify a key protein which helps maintain the blood-brain barrier.

This image shows an MRI scan of a human patient with medulloblastoma brain cancer.

Brain Cancer Featured Genetics Neurology

·August 24, 2014·3 min read

Study Suggests Repurposing Antidepressant Medication to Target Medulloblastoma

Researchers report the antidepressant drug Rolipram could be used to effectively treat medulloblastoma brain cancer.

Featured Genetics Neuroscience

·September 1, 2011·5 min read

The Battle of the Morphogens: How to Get Ahead in the Nervous System

Salk scientists discover a highly conserved mechanism governing brain development. If you think today’s political rhetoric is overheated, imagine what...